DURHAM — The Durham Police Department, Oyster River Middle School and Durham Parks & Recreation hosted the second annual Bike Workshop for the entire fifth grade class on May 14.

The week started off with helmet safety presentations conducted by McGregor Memorial, and interactive demonstrations of directional signals and road signs taught during PE class.

Next, the students had a chance to test out their skills as they rotated through three additional stations: bike maintenance, obstacle course, and road tour.

“Last year, we kicked off the idea with a half-day workshop. It was so popular, that we reached out to even more community volunteers and were able to plan an entire day filled with events,” said School Resource Officer Holly Malasky.

“This was a great example of the types of programs we’re initiating and evolving on a regular basis; the kind that encourage all community members to participate in healthy, fun, and enriching activities,” Durham Parks & Recreation Director Stefanie Frazee commented.

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Courtesy photo
A student demonstrates the signal for a left turn while navigating the obstacle course.

One proud mom said, “Thank you for directing this event. A firefighter did in two minutes what we haven’t been able to do for years. My daughter can now ride a bike!”

Event organizers would like to thank all of this year’s volunteers, especially Papa Wheelies and Rye Airfield for providing professional mechanics to ensure the kids’ bikes were in tip-top shape before hitting the road!

“Everybody who works here loves to ride bikes: on the road, on trails, commuting or just having fun. We provide free lifetime tune-ups with every new bike purchase,” Josh Pierce, general manager of Papa Wheelies explained.

In addition to completing the skills stations, each participant received backpacks filled with bike goodies, including reflectors and stickers.